History of Dolphin Lodge
The Lodges Vision:
In a move to protect its vested interests the US invaded Panama in 1992. After a sense of balance was restored the economic climate for the San Blas Kuna looked extremely bleak. Ignoring the naysayers the De La Ossa-Tajadas family began fulfilling their vision of an eco-cultural lodge. Using native dug outs they started transporting load after load of foundation to the island location. Eventually the intimate campus was raised and leveled so that construction could begin. It was a day of community celebration when the first two San Blas styled structures were finally completed. Today the success of the enterprise has brought the number of solar powered accommodations to 13.
A Marriage of Old and New Technologies:
All of our units are constructed using centuries old San Blas raised pier construction, renewable materials and Kuna techniques. The wall joists use a wild cane locally known as cana brava which has recently drawn considerable attention as a bio fuel source. This same cane has been used for centuries as arrow shafts, harpoons, fish traps, baskets, mats and hats. The walls of these San Blas condos are crafted of woven palm fronds called penca that are changed on a seasonal or as needed basis. On demand showers and toilets along with roof mounted solar panels transport the bahio into the third millennium.
The San Blas Dolphin Lodge and The Community:
Dolphin Lodge is perched on the charming little grassy island of Uaguitupo 100 meters from the larger island of Achutupu. Just a fifty minute flight and a three minute canoe ride from Panama City this small island is so close to Achutupu you can easily make out people on the shore. The island is located in the Caribbean in Kuna lands about 75 sea miles from Colombia.
The San Blas Dolphin Lodge contributes to the community through a conventional bed tax and has been instrumental in supporting improvements to the local air strip.